a branding project that later transformed into my Thesis presentation in graduate school
Beginning with ridding myself of preconceived notions, the Eye Guys were formed without concern. Past works leading up to this project have been experimental and abstract, and celebrated “breaking the tools.” This project is a conceptual expansion of fictional characters. This includes a robust backstory and a fictitious language. The characters’ world is based on existing structures that we see in society. Although entirely fictional, the Eye Guys are here to tell a story with conviction. This project does not just promote play but also aims to educate.
Form and concept work together tunefully to create a conceivable entity. What is cute? What is scary? Can cute be scary? This project falls somewhere between the lines of these dueling themes. Through research, a scientific approach of quantifying these themes was conducted.
Logo development with typefaces and strokes
Custom box packaging DIE-LINES
Laser-cut card stock with acetate window
Eye Guy Prototypes with Packaging
Eye Guy Prototypes
Product Pamphlet
The pamphlet is an accordion-style booklet that introduces the Eye Guy family and their individual names. The backside of the pamphlet is decorated by the repetition of the of the logo without text. A QR code on the back cover directs children to the Eye Guy Animation, giving them a sense or Deb, Norm and Maudes personalities.
Animation
The eye guy animation was created using stop-motion. A stage was set with photography studio lighting. Each individual frame was captured with a camera on a tripod. The characters in the animation were made from plasticine oil-based clay with wire armature for extra support. The manipulation of the characters began to ware on their structure, prompting me to make 4 extras of each character to complete the animation.
Watch full video on YouTube
Plasticine extras for animation
Stage for animation
Experimental outputs
RGB Color Study of Eye Guy Toy Prototypes
Chess Pieces